What type of payment do you accept for counseling?
I prefer payment in the form of cash but am able to accept checks, credit card payments (Visa or Mastercard). All payments are due at the time of service.
Counseling Fees
The return on investment and value for counseling can be immeasurable as its goal is to improve your life, relationships, health, and well-being.
Fees for 50 min. sessions in person, by phone, or on-line via secure platform:
Individual or Couples or Family Counseling: $100 per session. (The initial session/assessment is 55 minutes and is $135). If indicated or requested, a longer initial session can be scheduled per rates below.
Some busy professionals prefer to schedule longer therapy sessions or intensives to work on specific issues. This is a good choice for those who need relief fast or for those with hectic schedules where coming for longer less frequent sessions is preferred.
85 min. therapy session: $150 for individuals or couples
110 minutes (double) therapy session: $200. for individual therapy or for couples or marriage counseling
Extended counseling sessions may be useful for those who have schedules or challenges where longer less frequent meetings make sense.
For couples, these longer counseling sessions can act as a jump start if you feel stuck in negative patterns or if your relationship is in trouble.
What about using insurance for counseling?
If you have health insurance that covers counseling, you can choose to be reimbursed for your fees according to your plan’s benefit schedule. As a private counseling practice, I can work with you as an out of network provider. Usually PPO or POS plans use this category. I will provide you with a “Superbill” and you can file the claim with your insurance company and request reimbursment according to your plan.
Many of my clients who use their out of network benefits get reimbursed 65-80% of the counseling fee. Others use their Health Savings or Flex Account (see below) which may cover all of it and allows tax advantages.
You’ll need to check your plan first to determine your benefits for licensed Marriage and Family Counselors as “Out of Network” providers, determine if there’s a deductible and if its been met, and what percentage they cover for individual or family counseling.
I’ll provide you with a receipt with the necessary info to obtain counseling fee reimbursement based on your plan.
What’s the difference?
Counselors who choose to directly contract with insurance companies have to make concessions as do their clients. It’s important to me to preserve the integrity of the counseling process and avoid conflicts with a managed care company at times requiring personal therapy data and details about your treatment.
I strive to offer a personalized counseling experience without involvement from insurance companies, the various entities they now employ, or outsource to, for managing their electronic data.
Can I use a Health Savings Account, Flex Account, or HRA/HSA for counseling?
Yes.
Using a pre-tax Flex or Health Savings Account for counseling is a way to save you money and avoid the hassles of managed care. Unlike using your health insurance for counseling, this route may not always require you to provide a mental health diagnosis.